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Two Virginia Military Institute cadets who serve as emergency medical technicians (EMT) on post and who volunteer with the Lexington Fire Department were honored Feb. 15 at the LFD’s annual awards banquet held at the Virginia Horse Center.
Dylan G. Holbach ’26, a biology major from Chesapeake, was awarded the Weldon Tolley EMS Provider of the Year. Mikhail Tulupov ’25, a biology major from Leesburg, was named the Arthur Wallace Rookie of the Year.
Holbach confessed that the tribute was unexpected. “Being recognized with the award from LFD is a humbling reminder that dedication and passion lead to meaningful achievements, and I’m grateful for this honor,” he said.
When he is home in Chesapeake, Holbach also volunteers with the Virginia Beach Department of Emergency Medical Services (VBEMS) and the VBEMS Marine Rescue Team. He is the son of Jennifer and Christopher Holbach, and his great-grandfather, Sid Hickman Sr., was actually a founding member of the Lexington Lifesaving Crew. After graduating, he plans to go to medical school and seek a career in emergency medicine.
Tulupov said that the award means a lot to him. “LFD has taught me many different skills and has given me an opportunity to learn more about myself,” he said. “This job isn’t for the faint hearted. I want to use these rescue and lifesaving skills in my future career.”
Tulupov is the son of Elena and Victor Tulupov. He plans to go to medical school after graduating from VMI.
David Sigler, financial analyst in the Office of Finance and Budget at VMI and Lexington City Council member, said, “Lexington and Rockbridge County citizens benefit greatly from numerous VMI cadets’ selfless service and dedication to public safety. In total, about a dozen cadets volunteer regularly to support the LFD’s career and volunteer staff to provide fire and emergency medical services in the city and a portion of Rockbridge County. I find it inspiring that college kids, who could be doing other activities in their spare time, commit to responding to emergencies in their community.”
Ty Dickerson, fire chief for the city of Lexington, shared, “VMI cadets who volunteer as firefighters and EMTs with the LFD become an integral part of our fire department family and touch many parts of our community as they respond to people in times of need.”
